An increase in the number of immigrants into Ireland in recent years is having a significant impact on a country that has hitherto been a source of emigration and has a relatively homogenous society, culturally and ethnically. The change is taking place within the EU and affects, and is affected by, policy and developments within both ireland and the European entity. It coincides with other major cultural changes in Irish society. The Irish National Committee of the European Cultural Foundation in association with the Royal Irish Academy held a conference in Dublin in February 2003 to discuss and draw attention to the issues of cultural diversity. The conference provided a forum in which policy makers and those active in the interest of immigrants could challenge each other. It also provided an opportunity for organisations working in related fields to make contact and continue with their work together in dialogue and research.